Alexandre Pato’s agent has refused to rule out the possibility of his client joining Chelsea.
The Blues have recently appointed former AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti as their new boss, fuelling speculation of an imminent raid on the Serie A giants.
A big-money move for Brazilian superstar Kaka has already been touted, and denied, while teenage striker Pato is the latest to be linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge.
The 19-year-old has been quick to distance himself from the rumours, suggesting he is happy in Italy, but his representative has given a different story.
“Milan must decide what they want to do, we are enthusiastic about Chelsea’s interest for the player, but the final decision is up to them,” Gilmar Veloz said in the The Times. “Pato has a contract with Milan but, if they meet Chelsea’s asking price, we’re open to a move. Right now, however, all I can say is that I cannot guarantee that Pato will remain at Milan. It’s up to the club.”
Pato, who has already won six caps for Brazil, is widely regarded as one of the hottest prospects in European football.
As such, Milan are reluctant to let him leave, with club owner Silvio Berlusconi responding to the Chelsea talk by suggesting the youngster is indispensible.
“Pato would absolutely not be sold, not now, not ever,” he said.
General manager Adriano Galliani added:
“There is a negotiation for Kaka, but none of our other key men are for sale. That includes (Alexandre) Pato, (Andrea) Pirlo and (Clarence) Seedorf.”
